Biblical and Religious Studies (BRS)
BRS 290X Christian Apologetics - 3 Hours
Introduction to the major intellectual challenges facing Christianity, and examination of the means and methods Christians have used to address these challenges. Proofs for God's existence and a broad range of philosophical approaches for defending the Christian faith. Cross-listed with PH 290X.
BRS 305 Theology I: The God of the Gospel - 3 Hours
This course reflects upon the triune God and the God-world relation. It introduces theological methodology and treats the doctrines of general and special revelation, particularly that of Holy Scripture. The course also engages theology proper (the divine perfections and personal attributes of the Holy Trinity) and the works of God in creating and providentially caring for the cosmos, including humans.
BRS 306 Theology II: The Gospel of God - 3 Hours
This course focuses on the gospel, the economy of salvation, the incarnation of the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The course begins by treating the human condition as now fallen, and sin as the backdrop of the gospel. Attention then turns to the work of Christ, particularly the atonement and accomplishment of redemption as the content of the gospel. The course then considers the application and consummation of redemption by examining the work of the Holy Spirit, the nature, mission, and destiny of the church as the gathered people of God as the climax of the gospel. The course concludes with a consideration of how the gospel story ends, for believers and unbelievers, in the glory of God's being all in all in the new heaven and new earth. Prerequisite: BRS 305.
BRS 338 Theological and Sociological Foundations of Evangelism - 3 Hours
A study of the theology of evangelism and contemporary sociological factors of conversion. Examination of the gospel message and biblical reasons for doing evangelism and consideration of issues in understanding why people convert, in order to formulate an evangelical understanding of evangelism. Contemporary evangelistic methods and evaluation of them in light of the material presented in class. Students are challenged to make evangelism a component of daily life whether in a vocational ministry or a secular occupation.
BRS 340X History of Christianity - 3 Hours
A survey of the history of the Christian church from the New Testament to the present. Approximately equal time is spent on the early, medieval, Reformation, and modern periods. Cross-listed with HI 340X.
BRS 350 Topics in Biblical and Religious Studies - 1-3 Hours
A study of selected biblical or religious topics. May be repeated for different topics. Offered on demand for Deerfield traditional undergraduate.
BRS 363X Survey of Religious Diversity - 3 Hours
A survey of the world's major religions, including Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and other religious movements. The specific aim of the course is to learn how to understand and engage a full range of religious worldviews from the perspective of the Christian faith. Special attention is given to comparing and contrasting religious movements with the historic Christian faith. The course probes various dimensions of the problem of religious truth, explores the possibility of constructing a systematic understanding of religions, and seeks to formulate creative and thoughtful responses to the problem of religious diversity. Cross-listed with PH 363X.
BRS 400 Bible and Ministry Senior Seminar - 3 Hours
A seminar that focuses on the needs and issues related to preparing for postgraduate ministry or education. Includes in-depth study of selected problems and recent developments related to biblical studies, theology, and ministry. Fulfills the IDS 499X Integrative Thought Capstone requirement for Bible and Ministry majors. Prerequisites: BI 105, BI 115, and CM 172.
BRS 430 Advanced Topics in Religious Studies - 1-3 Hours
Selected courses taught at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Open only to qualified juniors and seniors with approval from the Director of TEDS Undergraduate Teaching and TEDS professor.
BRS 437X Music in Worship - 3 Hours
The study of biblical, theological, historical, and practical concepts and patterns for worship of all major Christian traditions. The types of music and the roles music has played in the worship of various historical traditions will be considered in light of the theology of those traditions. Includes the study of congregational song. Student projects include planning, leading, and evaluating music in worship. Prerequisites: BI 105 and BI 115 or permission of instructor. Offered fall semester in even-numbered years. Cross-listed with WOR 437X. Delivery mode: Deerfield traditional undergraduate.
BRS 450 Independent Study - 1-4 Hours
Advanced study in special topics for students who have demonstrated ability in religious studies. The preparation of a research paper is normally required. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor.